Utah State Instructional Materials Access Center Providing A Bright Future
BECOMING A PBN VENDOR WITH USIMAC
Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of USIMAC’s Preferred Braille Network (PBN). While we transcribe all forms of braille—including UEB, UEB Math/Science, UEB with Nemeth, Music, and Foreign Language—our greatest need is currently in UEB Math/Science.
Beginning in 2026, USIMAC will no longer offer contracts for literary braille transcription. Moving forward, we will issue contracts only in the following categories:
- UEB Math/Science, Level 2 (grade 4-8)
- UEB Math/Science, Level 3 (grade 9-12)
- Music, Levels 1-4
To become part of the USIMAC's PBN Approved Vendor List, you must first be a certified braille transcriber. We accept certifications from Canada (CNIB), and the United States (LOC Braille Certification through NFB). You must also have obtained a Certificate in Braille Textbook Formatting from the National Braille Association (NBA).
In addition, you must also hold a certificate in Braille Mathematics using Nemeth, UEB with Nemeth, or UEB Math/Science. We recognize certificates from the following institutions:
- United States: NFB (UEB with Nemeth)
- Canada: CNIB (UEB Technical)
- Australia: RIDBC (must hold all three certificates—Introductory Mathematics, Advanced Mathematics, and Extension Mathematics).
Note that this process will only be valid until the NLS offers a UEB Math/Science Certification.
At this time, we are not accepting new members while we develop a new induction process. Our updated program is scheduled to launch in 2027.
BECOMING A BRAILLE TRANSCRIBER
For Information on how to become a certified Braille Transcriber in the USA, please visit NFB Braille Certification Program. The course takes, on average, 6 to 12 months to complete but there is no fee to do so.
WHO WE SERVE
USIMAC provides educational materials for all students with print-related disabilities who are qualified under the Chafee Amendment or otherwise eligible through a current IEP or 504 plan throughout the state of Utah age's birth to 21. We originally began our transcriber network using the same model as the American Printing House for the Blind in Kentucky; however, over the years we have molded the program to work best with our state and our government's procurement/production policies.